E-Newsletter

Living with ARDS

If you have ARDS your lung function is likely to return to normal or near normal within several months. But some people with ARDS have lasting damage to their lungs or to areas outside the lungs. A study found that one year after discharge from the intensive care unit, ARDS survivors may still suffer side effects, mostly persistent muscle wasting and weakness.

If you have lasting effects from ARDS, talk to your doctor. You may be helped by pulmonary rehabilitation. This is a program of education and exercise classes that teach you about your lungs and your disease, and how to exercise and be more active with less shortness of breath.